After weeks of cool temperatures and sporadic rain showers, Environment Canada is forecasting high temperatures for the Okanagan Valley, Fraser Canyon, South Thompson, Boundary and West Kootenays.
A heat warning is being issued for the Southern Interior of B.C. with temperatures forecast to reach between 35 and 37 degrees C, with overnight lows of 18 C.
According to Environment Canada, a building ridge of high pressure will usher in warmer temperatures from Tuesday to Thursday this week.
âEach day may be slightly warmer than the previous day, with the coolest temperatures expected near sunrise,â stated the federal weather agency.
Environment Canada and the Interior Health Authority expect an increase in health and safety risks from heat and are advising the public to take precautions.
Heat affects everyone, but risks are greater for seniors, people who live alone, people with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory disease, people with mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety, people with substance use disorders, and people with limited mobility.
Watch for early signs of heat illness, which include feeling unwell, fatigue, thirst, headache, and unusually dark urine, as these can rapidly evolve into life-threatening emergencies.
Anyone working in the heat should take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool or shaded space.
Make sure to leave your pets at home and never leave animals or children alone in the car during high temperatures.
If you are in an overheated area, seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, splash pad, misting station, or air-conditioned spot like a public building.
For more information: , h
Check HealthLinkBC online resources about heat-related illness and how to protect yourself at . Call HealthLinkBC at 811 to ask about heat-related illness.
